Sweet Journey 17 was created in loving memory of Ariana Ehrenthal, whose courage and compassion continue to inspire a mission of helping families during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

After a long and brave battle in two children’s hospitals, Ariana’s parents remained faithfully by her side for six straight weeks, traveling from South Florida to Philadelphia to be with their daughter. During that time, they experienced firsthand the emotional and financial strain families face when a child requires an extended hospital stay.

While parents want nothing more than to remain close to their child, many hospitals are not equipped to support families for long-term stays. Overnight accommodations can be limited, and the daily cost of meals quickly becomes overwhelming. Families often find themselves balancing work obligations, travel expenses, and the financial burden of simply being present for their child.

Sweet Journey 17 exists to ease that burden.

Your donation helps provide financial assistance for meals and accommodations, allowing parents and caregivers to remain near their hospitalized child without the added stress of daily expenses. By supporting families during these critical moments, we help ensure that parents can focus on what matters most — being there for their child.

Although Ariana never had the chance to leave the hospital, she carried a dream of one day becoming a nurse so she could care for others. Her compassion and desire to help families like hers sparked the vision for this foundation.

Today, her loving parents continue that mission — turning heartbreak into hope for other families navigating their own hospital journeys.

Your support keeps Ariana’s legacy alive and helps families stay close, nourished, and supported when they need it most.

Together, we can ease the journey for families facing the unimaginable.